Costa Rica struck first through striker Andy Herron in the 22nd minute. Canada goalkeeper Greg Sutton sent a goal-kick upfield, where Costa Rica’s Armando Alonso headed it to an open Herron on the right wing. Herron dribbled unmarked into Canada’s penalty area, where he flicked a shot past the onrushing Sutton.

Canada responded with two goals in the next four minutes. Midfielder Patrice Bernier struck in the 23rd minute, receiving a Josh Simpson pass from the left and beating goalkeeper Ricardo Gonzalez with a shot from just outside the six-yard box.

Midfielder Marcel De Jong put Canada ahead in impressive style in the 27th minute. De Jong pounced on a loose ball, dribbled and blasted a shot from 25m that went inside the left post.